What happened?
The 11th India-European Union Human Rights Dialogue held in New Delhi on January 8, 2025, focused on strengthening cooperation between India and the European Union on human rights. The discussions primarily focused on shared commitments towards democracy, freedom, the rule of law, and other specific human rights issues such as civil rights, gender equality, and freedom of expression.
Why it matters to India:
Both sides discussed the issues related to civil and political rights; social, economic, and cultural rights; elimination of discrimination in all its manifestations; freedom of religion or belief; countering religious hatred; freedom of expression and opinion, both online and offline; gender, LGBTQI+ and the rights of the child; women’s empowerment; and technology and human rights. The two sides also exchanged views on the rights of migrants and Business and Human Rights.”
During the dialogue, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to human rights while addressing key differences, including the EU’s opposition to capital punishment and India’s focus on the Right to Development. They also concurred on the importance of enhancing multilateral cooperation and maintaining regular dialogue.